This inline-six diesel engine, designated by the M51D25 engine code, features a displacement of 2498 cm³ (152.4 cubic inches) and is equipped with a turbocharger. The longitudinally aligned engine operates with a Bosch VP20 fuel system, offering precise diesel fuel management. With a bore and stroke of 80 x 82.8 mm (3.15 x 3.26 inches), the 12-valve setup maximizes durability and fuel efficiency, while a high compression ratio of 22:1 enhances power and efficiency.
The engine produces a peak output of 115 PS (113 HP or 85 kW) at 4800 rpm, delivering smooth and steady performance. Torque is strong at lower revs, with a maximum of 222 Nm (163 lb-ft) available at 1900 rpm, providing ample pull for daily driving and highway cruising. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD) layout, this engine offers a balance of efficiency and capability, ideal for a range of driving conditions.
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325 td Engine Technical Data
| Engine type – Number of cylinders | Inline 6 |
| Engine Code | M51D25 |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Fuel System | Bosch VP20 |
| Engine Alignment | Longitudinal |
| Engine size – Displacement – Engine capacity | 2498 cm3 / 152.4 cu-in |
| Bore x Stroke | 80 x 82.8 mm 3.15 x 3.26 inches |
| Number of valves | 12 Valves |
| Aspiration | Turbo |
| Compression Ratio | 22 |
| Maximum power – Output – Horsepower | 115 PS / 113 HP / 85 kW @ 4800 rpm |
| Maximum torque | 222 Nm / 163 lb-ft @ 1900 rpm |
| Drive wheels – Traction – Drivetrain | RWD |
| Transmission Gearbox – Number of speeds | 5 speed Manual |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325 td Fuel Consumption (Economy), Emissions and Range
This turbocharged diesel engine is designed for efficient fuel consumption across various driving environments. In combined conditions, it averages 7.4 L/100 km (38 MPG UK or 32 MPG US), making it economical for everyday use. On open roads, its efficiency shines with a consumption rate of just 5.1 L/100 km (55 MPG UK or 46 MPG US), ideal for long-distance travel. Highway driving yields 6.8 L/100 km (42 MPG UK or 35 MPG US), while city driving consumes 8.9 L/100 km (32 MPG UK or 26 MPG US), balancing urban and highway efficiency.
The 65-liter fuel tank (17.2 US gallons or 14.3 UK gallons) offers an impressive range of approximately 878 km (546 miles) on a full tank, reducing the need for frequent refueling. With estimated CO₂ emissions of 195 g/km, this engine provides an efficient blend of power and economy, suitable for drivers seeking long-range capability and lower emissions.
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Combined | 7.4 L/100 Km 38 MPG UK 32 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Open road | 5.1 L/100 Km 55 MPG UK 46 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – Highway | 6.8 L/100 Km 42 MPG UK 35 MPG US |
| Fuel Consumption – Economy – City | 8.9 L/100 Km 32 MPG UK 26 MPG US |
| Range | 878 Km / 546 miles |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L 17.2 US gallons 14.3 UK gallons |
| CO2 emissions | 195 g/Km (estimate) |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325 td Performance
This diesel engine offers a balanced mix of performance and economy, achieving a top speed of 198 km/h (123 mph). The 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) acceleration time is 12.0 seconds, which provides steady, reliable power suitable for daily driving and highway merging. Covering a 1000-meter distance in 33.3 seconds, this engine emphasizes efficiency and endurance over rapid acceleration. These performance figures make it a strong choice for drivers who prioritize fuel economy and smooth, consistent power delivery.
| Top Speed | 198 Km/h / 123 Mph |
| Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) | 12.0 s |
| Acceleration 0 to 1000m | 33.3 s |
BMW E36 3 Series Sedan 325 td Size, Dimensions, Aerodynamics and Weight
This four-door model is engineered for practicality and comfort, accommodating up to five passengers. With a wheelbase of 270 cm (106.3 inches), it offers a stable, spacious interior while maintaining a manageable length of 443.3 cm (174.53 inches), width of 169.8 cm (66.85 inches), and height of 139.3 cm (54.84 inches). The curb weight is 1430 kg (3153 lbs), resulting in a weight-to-power ratio of 12.4 kg/hp, which supports smooth and reliable handling.
Aerodynamically efficient, the vehicle is equipped with vented front brake discs (286 mm / 11.26 inches) and solid rear discs (280 mm / 11.02 inches), ensuring robust stopping power. Both front and rear tires are sized at 185/65 R15, contributing to balanced traction and ride comfort. The suspension setup includes McPherson struts in the front and a multi-link Z-axle in the rear, promoting a well-damped, comfortable ride with precise handling. The trunk offers a capacity of 435 liters (15.4 cubic feet), providing ample cargo space for everyday needs. This vehicle is ideal for those seeking practicality, comfort, and consistent performance in a well-rounded package.
| Num. of Doors | 4 |
| Wheelbase | 270 cm / 106.3 in |
| Length | 443.3 cm / 174.53 in |
| Width | 169.8 cm / 66.85 in |
| Height | 139.3 cm / 54.84 in |
| Num. of Seats | 5 |
| Aerodynamic drag coefficient – Cx | – |
| Front Brakes – Disc dimensions | Vented Discs (286 mm / 11.26 in) |
| Rear Brakes – Dics dimensions | Discs (280 mm / 11.02 in) |
| Front Tyres – Rims dimensions | 185/65 R15 |
| Rear Tyres – Rims dimensions | 185/65 R15 |
| Curb Weight | 1430 Kg / 3153 lbs |
| Weight-Power Output Ratio | 12.4 kg/hp |
| Trunk / Boot capacity | 435 L / 15.4 cu-ft |
| Front Suspension | McPherson struts |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link Z-Axle |
